Lepakshi Travel Essentials
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Lepakshi Tourism
Lepakshi is a small quaint village with a trail of several great kingdoms that once ruled the area. Located in the Anantpur district of Andhra Pradesh, Lepakshi is located at a distance of 120 km from Bangalore making it a great choice for one day trip. Founded in 1535 AD by Maharaja Aliya Rama Raya of the Vijayanagara empire, Lepakshi is a trove of several fascinating archaeological sites, beautiful ancient temples and rich culture.
Each structure narrating a story of its own, this enchanting village also derives its name from Sanskrit language meaning 'rise o bird' and has folklore attached to it. Locals believe that according to the legend of Ramayana, Jatayu fell in Lepakshi after getting injured by Ravana. The village is most famous as being home to the Lepakshi Temple - known for the stunning Vijaynagar style of architecture and hanging pillars.
A magnificent example of timeless art and architecture, the temples of Lepakshi celebrate the might of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Veerabhadra. Apart from richly carved temples with inscriptions in Kannada and hanging pillar, the most striking feature of Lepakshi is the largest monolithic idol of Nandi Bull in the entire subcontinent made of granite.
A magnificent example of timeless art and architecture, the temples of Lepakshi celebrate the might of Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Veerabhadra. Apart from richly carved temples with inscriptions in Kannada and hanging pillar, the most striking feature of Lepakshi is the largest monolithic idol of Nandi Bull in the entire subcontinent made of granite.
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Vijayanagara Architectural Style
Vijayanagara Architectural Style was developed by the grand Vijayanagar empire which was in power in South India. The monuments built during their time are one of the major attractions all across South India. Lepakshi also shows the Vijayanagara Architectural style through its gorgeous temples. One of its most famous temples, Veerbhadra Temple, has gorgeous structures established inside it. Various carvings and paintings and the hanging pillar in Veerbhadra temple is a major source of curiosity among the people.
Such structures were built during the Vijayanagar rule, and they are still standing strong. The architectural style and the material used in the construction of these beautiful monuments are class apart.
Legend
Jatayu, in order to prevent the abduction of Sita, was mortally injured by Ravana and fell here. Legend has it that this town was named after Lord Rama paid his visit to a dying Jatayu, and helped him attain Moksha by uttering the words 'Le Pakshi', which translated to 'rise, bird' in Telugu. Hence the name 'Lepakshi'.
The Mystery of Hanging Pillar
The most awe-striking feature of Lepakshi’s architectural marvels is the renowned Hanging Pillar of Veerabhadra Temple. Out of the 70 pillars built in the Vijaynagar style of architecture in the stone temple in 1583 AD, by brothers Virupanna and Veeranna, this particular pillar stands as an exceptionally magnificent piece of architecture. The 20 feet long granite pillar, with intricate beautiful carvings, does not rest on the ground; it completely hangs in the air. The space between its base and ground effortlessly allows a sheet of paper or small twig through it.
The pillar was dislodged from its original position- thanks to an unsuccessful attempt by a British engineer who tried to discover the secret of its support. The Archeological Survey of India has proved that the construction of this pillar was not a mistake, but an intentional, well-planned execution which till date signifies the brilliance of builders and architects at that time.
Silk Weaving
The state of Andhra Pradesh has a distinction for being home to a unique and typical style of handloom products. Dharmavaram is a small town located at around 47 km from Anantapur and is a famous hub of distinctive silk weaving and rich handloom weaving. The classical, elegant and magnificently designed silk sarees have gained worldwide popularity. These sarees are traditional, heavy and broad bordered with rich buta have entailed and robbed the hearts of millions of women around the globe.
Another speciality of AP are Uppada sarees and dress materials, weaved in the Uppada town. The Uppada Jamdani is a popular variety of lightweight silk sarees. The word ‘Jamdani’ is, in fact, a Persian word, where ‘Jam’ means ‘flower’ and Dani means ‘vase’. These sarees take 10-60 days time, with the effort of 2-3 weavers for about 10 hours a day. They make use of pure lace and silver zari, often dipped in melted gold. The popularity of these sarees can be credited to their lightweight, soft texture, durability and strength. These Jamdanis are the perfect choice to wear on occasions like weddings, festivals, etc. due to its classic and luxurious looks.
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How to Reach Lepakshi
How to Reach Overview
Lepakshi is a village in the Anantapur district. It doesn't have an airport or a railway station. However, it is well-connected with various major cities through roadways. Bengaluru International Airport is the nearest airport to Lepakshi. Many local state buses are available to take you from one part of Andhra Pradesh to another. Cab service is also available for those people who wish to enjoy the journey to Lepakshi through road.
How to reach Lepakshi by flight
The nearest airbase to the Lepakshi Village is Bangalore International Airport which lies at a distance of around 100 km. Being an international airport, it is widely and actively connected with several major cities of the country as well as countries in the Middle East and South East Asia. Taxis are easily available outside the airport till the required destination.
How to reach Lepakshi by road
Lepakshi is easily approachable through road via Hindupur. There are several private as well as state-owned buses that connect Hindupur to several major cities of the country. Further, from Hindupur, tourists can opt for either taxi or buses that frequently run to and fro.
How to reach Lepakshi by train
Hindupur railway station serves as the nearest railways station to Lepakshi. It is located about 12 km from our destination which can be easily covered by taxi available outside the station.
Local transport in Lepakshi
Moving around Lepakshi is best done through the local bus service which is quite cheap as well convenient. Taxi is another way of commuting that may not be very cheap but serves as the faster way of transportation. However, make sure you plan your trip in winters to avoid extremely hot and humid weather of Lepakshi. Winters is the best time to explore the divine beauty of temples and savor the rich culture of the place.
Lepakshi Photos
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FAQs on Lepakshi
What is famous about Lepakshi?
Rich in heritage and culture of India. Buildings date back to 18th century and reflect the Vijayanagara architectural style. Easy to reach and accommodations are easily available as well.
What is not so good about Lepakshi?
It doesn't have many monuments present there. It is small in size, and less lively as compared to other cities of Andhra Pradesh. Cannot be visited in summers.
Who should visit Lepakshi?
Lepakshi is a great place for architecture lovers. It can also be visited by people with religious sentiments, as a lot of temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu here. If you want to know more about the history and heritage of India, you should go to Lepakshi.
What is the best time to visit Lepakshi?
This quaint and beautiful village of Lepakshi is ideal to take a trip to during the Winter Season from October to March. Lepakshi experiences pleasant weather that's ideal for sightseeing; hence one can witness the grandeur of the ancient temples and the beautiful carvings on idols, getting an essence of its culture and history. Monsoons enhance the beauty of Lepakshi to an extent but the season is less ideal for sightseeing. Although the weather is chill, the level of humidity rises during monsoons as well as summers making these seasons less significant for a visit.
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What is the local food in Lepakshi?
Just like accommodation, Lepakshi houses few restaurants option serving delicious food. The food is available in various cuisines. You will always get more options of dining out in Hindupur lying at a distance of 14 kms.
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What is the best way to reach Lepakshi?
Lepakshi is a village in the Anantapur district. It doesn't have an airport or a railway station. However, it is well-connected with various major cities through roadways. Bengaluru International Airport is the nearest airport to Lepakshi. Many local state buses are available to take you from one part of Andhra Pradesh to another. Cab service is also available for those people who wish to enjoy the journey to Lepakshi through road.
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What are the places near Lepakshi?
The top places near to Lepakshi are Nandi hills which is 50 km from Lepakshi, Bangalore which is located 93 km from Lepakshi, Ooty which is located 284 km from Lepakshi, Coorg which is located 253 km from Lepakshi, Chikballapur which is located 40 km from Lepakshi
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Popular Questions And Answers on Lepakshi
Q. How old it is really the temple if it is from Rama time?
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Lepakshi Reviews
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Amit Gupta
5 years ago
I went there last year and liked this place a lot..... Best place to visit in lepakshi Temple is Monolithic Nandi, A giant status of Shivji's wahan... <3
Rohit Shroff
6 years ago
- Make sure you carry a camera to capture the cultural heritage of the city.
- Avoid travelling the city during summers owing to hot and humid weather conditions.
- Carry a pair of sport shoes (Read More)for there is lot of walking and trekking around the town.
- Avoid travelling the city during summers owing to hot and humid weather conditions.
- Carry a pair of sport shoes (Read More)for there is lot of walking and trekking around the town.